Discovering New Hobbies Post-COVID: Knitting, Diamond Painting, and More
With the advent of the pandemic, many of us found ourselves with newfound time and free will to explore new interests. Here are some of the hobbies and crafts I have picked up since staying home more often.
Learning to Knit
One of the most surprising discoveries I made during this time was learning to knit! I’ve always thought of knitting as a craft meant for my mother, but the quarantine gave me a chance to explore something new. After a while, I purchased a circle loom and started making various items—hats, scarves, bags, and hand muffs. It has been a rewarding and therapeutic experience, plying yarn and creating useful items for myself and others.
Diamond Painting: A Meticulous Hobby
Another hobby I discovered is diamond painting. While it is quite expensive, the satisfaction and the finished art are worth it. Each piece requires meticulous attention to detail, and the result is a stunning piece of art. Whether it is a DIY kit or a pre-made piece, the process of completing a diamond painting is both relaxing and fulfilling.
Improving Language Skills: French Listening Comprehension
I have also been working on improving my French listening comprehension. This has been a slow process, as I only manage to practice twice a week, but it has been beneficial. Learning a new language has always been a dream of mine, and the effort is worth the outcome.
Copyediting and Online Education
One of the less traditional hobbies I have embraced is copyediting responses on Quora to enhance them. It has been a fascinating task that requires attention to detail and a deep understanding of language. Additionally, I have started walking up to 8 miles a day, which can be a bit boring, but it has been improved by listening to podcasts while I walk. This not only allows me to stay fit but also helps me in learning and growth.
Quora Obsession: Learning and Sharing
Another thriving hobby has been my extreme Quora reading and writing habit. Exploring online education opportunities through free courses offered by prestigious colleges and institutions has been enlightening. I also planted a garden, which now produces a variety of herbs, vegetables, and flowers like hydrangeas. It has been a rewarding experience both for me and those who benefit from it.
Exploring Musical and Artistic Passions
Music is another passion I have been tapping into recently. I discovered piano and it has changed things for me, making me realize how much I enjoy this challenging and rewarding hobby. Despite health issues that once prevented me from playing live gigs, the piano has been reintroduced into my life, allowing me to share my music with friends and nostalgia through my high school WhatsApp groups.
As an aspiring musician and amateur painter, I have rediscovered my love for visual arts. Since the pandemic, I have finished two large watercolor paintings and a smaller one. My workhorse keyboard has also been dusted off for use in sharing music with friends. This has been a transformative experience, reconnecting me with my creative side.
In conclusion, the pandemic has provided a unique opportunity to explore and grow through various hobbies and crafts. From knitting and diamond painting to learning French and online education, these activities have brought me joy and fulfillment during these challenging times.